STAGE

The Critics Speak: New York critics found little to like about the well-toured production of “Private Lives,” but some did throw a few kind words to its star, Joan Collins. The New York Times noted this is not a remotely satisfying production of Noel Coward’s 1930 comedy, but said that Collins, if only by default, is the most spontaneous thing about it. The New York Post allowed that Collins can act--even if at times only indifferently--while the Associated Press gave Collins credit for taking a chance, but said the production never should have braved Broadway.